Verizon diving into online streaming

Reuters is citing several unnamed “people,” familiar with a new plan from Verizon Communications Inc., which will have the phone company taking on Netflix and traditional cable companies by starting a standalone movie and television online streaming service.

The story reports that Verizon is currently in talks with programmers and that its proposed new streaming service would be offered only outside markets where Verizon already offers its FiOS broadband and TV package.

One of Reuters’ vaguely cited sources also said the new service could be launched next year.